What Certification Do I Need for My New Windows and Doors?

Planning a home renovation project can be stressful; deciding what paint colours to use can be hard enough, without adding in brand new windows, doors, and other upgrades. These types of home improvements can come with a significant price tag, a lot of technical jargon, and certificates that can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to choose the right company to work with.

Since April 2002, new windows and doors must be in line with building regulations compliance, and this is monitored through government-authorised certifications, such as FENSA or Certass. This documentation is essential, as it verifies the legal compliance of the replacement windows and doors. It also offers peace of mind, knowing that you are working with qualified professionals who offer top-quality products and adhere to high industry standards.

At Express Direct , we proudly hold Certass certification, so whether you’re interested in bifold doors, aluminium windows, or flat roof skylights, you can trust that with us you’re receiving the best in craftsmanship and reliability.

What is a Certass certification?

Alongside FENSA, Certass (Certification and Self-Assessment) is a consumer protection certification that is accredited by a Competent Person Scheme.¹ It simply means the quality of products and workmanship a homeowner will receive from a company with a Certass seal of approval is aligned with building regulation standards.

Founded in 2006, it was one of the original Quality Mark certifications bodies and was officially approved by Parliament in April of the same year. The certification covers all windows and doors, as well as extending to a broader range of building improvements. It benefits both installers and customers with:

• Quality assurance
• Building regulations compliance (of particular importance for homeowners who want to ensure their new windows and doors meet legal standards for energy efficiency, safety, and performance)
• Insurance backing
• Professional recognition

Certass-registered companies and contractors can present homeowners with a certificate of compliance upon completion of the work, ensuring it meets building regulations.  This means homeowners and customers don’t have to wait for a local authority inspection and approval, saving time and hassle.

 

What is the difference between Certass and FENSA?

While both certifications prioritise consumer protection and quality assurance, there are notable distinctions between them:

• Age and Membership: FENSA, established four years earlier, has a larger membership base. However, Certass is expanding rapidly, with its membership steadily increasing, while FENSA’s numbers have seen a slight decline.
• Scope: Certass provides a more extensive certification that includes various building improvements, whereas FENSA specialises solely in windows and doors.
• Assessment: The assessment methods differ; FENSA uses post-installation inspections, while Certass employs self-certification backed by regular audits to ensure quality standards are upheld.
• Green Homes Grant: Certass, with its TrustMark accreditation, is an approved certification body for the Green Homes Grant. Although FENSA has offered limited PAS 2030 training for installers involved in the scheme, Certass’ broader role provides a clear benefit for consumers focusing on energy-efficient upgrades.

Both certifications deliver robust consumer protection. Your decision may hinge on personal preference or the specific needs of your project.

Benefits of a Certass Certificate

A Certass certificate goes beyond mere compliance with standard regulations for windows and doors, offering homeowners the assurance of professional workmanship, trusted contractors, and financial protection.

• Compliance with building regulations: Certass-registered installers are required to comply with UK Building Regulations, which cover energy efficiency, fire safety, and structural integrity.
• Workmanship certification: Certass TrustMark certification shows that an installer’s workmanship meets industry standards.
• Warranties and indemnities: Certass-approved installers offer warranties and indemnities that protect homeowners financially.
• Time and money savings: Certass-approved installers are able to register windows and doors with the local authority for you, saving you time and money.
• Access to a dispute resolution service: The Certass Competent Person Scheme provides access to a dispute resolution service.

 

Why do I need a certification?

As of April 2002, building authorities established regulations for double glazing installation to guarantee improved thermal performance, proper ventilation, and fire safety. Not only is it illegal to install double glazing without building regulations compliance, but a certificate is legally required to be presented when you’re selling your home.

There are six Competent Person Schemes that ensure installations, and the companies who provide these installations, comply with the building regulations. The certificates provided serve as a guarantee to customers that their double-glazed windows and doors meet regulatory requirements, are safe for homeowners, and have been installed in accordance with proper building control procedures.

Certass Certification: The choice made by Express Direct

At Express Bi-Folds Direct, we are proud to be Certass certified, offering exceptional consumer protection. As a registered Certass installer (membership number: 002008), we undergo rigorous, ongoing assessments to ensure our work consistently meets and exceeds industry standards. However, it is important to note that Express Direct products are pre-made and delivered with quick turnaround times, and so installation is not included. Ensure you find a certified appointed inspector to assist with installation by looking for contractors registered with the TrustMark Government Endorsed Quality Scheme.

 

In addition to our 10-year standard warranty, we also offer separate coverage for specific elements such as sealing, hardware, paint, and surface treatments.

When you choose Express Direct for your renovation needs, you’re partnering with a company dedicated to compliance, quality, and customer satisfaction. With over a decade of certified experience, our team is here to guide you in finding the perfect solution for your home.

Visit one of our showrooms to see how our Certass certification can benefit you. For more information, contact our expert team today or download our free product brochures to explore our range of premium products.

FAQs

Is a Certass certificate the same as a FENSA certificate?

The certificate provided is called a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate, which is then issued by UKAS accredited certification bodies – including FENSA and Certass.

What’s covered by a Certass certificate?

A Certass certificate will cover:

• Glazing: New and replacement windows, doors, rooflights, and roof windows for home and commercial properties
• Insulation
• Roofing and electrical work
• Compliance with UK Building Regulations

Certass-registered installers are required to:

• Employ a skilled and trained workforce
• Have management systems and processes
• Offer financial protection for customers
• Demonstrate knowledge of, and adherence to, building regulations

What happens if I don’t have a Certass certificate?

It’s easy to get a replacement certificate online, through the official Certass website: https://certassbrccreplacements.powerappsportals.com/.

Do you need a certificate for new windows?

Yes, when replacing windows or doors, it’s a legal requirement to ensure they comply with building regulations. This can be achieved by either working with a company registered with a Competent Person Scheme to install the products, or by paying someone to inspect the work and issue a certificate after the fact.

Can you sell your house without a building regulations certificate?

No, you cannot sell a property without a building regulations certificate if it has for any property with windows or doors that were installed after April 1, 2002.

Can you fit windows without being FENSA or Certass registered?

There is no legal requirement for homeowners to use a company registered with a Competent Person Scheme (such as FENSA or Certass) to install new windows or doors, but it is recommended. If the installer isn’t registered, then the homeowner will need an external contractor / person of authority to attend the property and issue a certificate.

 

Notes

1. Competent Person Schemes are regulatory bodies, designed to ensure double glazing installations meet building standards. The Schemes invite double glazing companies to register with them, but the company must first demonstrate high quality and superior customer service.
2. Express Bifolds Direct does not provide installation of their products. The installation service is exclusive to the parent company, Express Bi-folding Doors. Any customers wanting to buy Express Bifolds Direct products will receive the same standard of quality and craftsmanship but will have to ensure they hire a Certass or FENSA certified contractor for the installation.